Friday, May 22, 2009

Pickles and Max* would like to welcome spring. And line drying dyeing. At least if Pickles wasn't scared of it and wigged out when he first saw it. He is fine now. But still that first line dry... terrifying.

Sometimes I forgot there are people who aren't on Ravelry. Sorry. I have been knitting! See? Pretty huh? Drops alpaca scarf. Yummay.

And some not so great photos of eyes wide shut us but its the only one I have of my smokin' boots, so tough. The sweater I knit out of black Malabrigo, its like butter. But better. We were on our way out to a fancy dinner for our 10th anniversary. Swanky huh?

Still goofballs after 10 years. And could I maybe have covered up that bra strap? Oh my!

Right now I have a cobbler in the oven and am waiting for Chris to finish his remicade infusion. Then its the beginning if birthday weekend** extravaganza. And by that I mean I booked and appointment for Chris to go to a posh spa for a massage (I am having some back issues.. again so no thanks) and that's about it. EXCITING HUH? :) Happy birthday also to our Angie. It must have sucked sharing a b-day when you were kids. But now? Who cares eh?

I have some optim to spin, and am happy to sit very still and do so. Careful now. Easy does it.

Happy weekend all..

*See his teeny tiny head on the very right hand side of the picture? Poor Maxy had to get a loose tooth pulled the other day. I am happy to report he came through like a trouper and is much happier for it. Also my vet rocks. He didn't even charge me for a vet visit. I LOVE YOU DR TORRENCE.**Chris is 37 on Saturday. I am 41 (gulp) on Sunday. It helps to never forget being that close.

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

You know, one of my favourite things? But don't push it rain, you are welcome for only so long.

More of my favourite things?

Mmm scratchy Japanese washcloths that make you silky smooth! Jake LOVES it! He is such a funny monkey. He actually used mine before I did. Good thing I bought one for everyone. From this seller on Ebay. She was awesome! Superfast and very communicative!

Greek yogurt! I haven't been able to readily find the real thing, so have been making my own. I use fat free (that's just how I roll) Astro (no gelatin) Balkan style, or Annie's (if I get up to the natural market) plain yogurt. Put it in a paper towel lined strainer, sit it in a bowl and let it sit overnight in the fridge. It drains out all the whey, it usually reduces by 1/3! OMG! Then you have the thickest most delicious yogurt KNOWN TO MAN. I just pop it back into its original container. I have been having mine with some:

Mmmm.. agave goodness! Like honey mated with maple syrup! Tasty!

I also add some Vanilla Bean Paste:

Which is heaven in a jar. I got it from Williams Sonomain Chinook Centre. Pricey but sosososososo worth it. It is also spectacular with homemade jam.

I am also on a coconut oil bender. I have been making these to die for scones with it.

Mix until its a soft sticky dough. Shape into 2 rounds and cut them into 6 or 8 pie shaped wedges. Bake on a greased cookie sheet for 13-15 minutes (longer if you use fresh/frozen fruit) or until golden brown at 400 degrees.

You can glaze these if you are so inclined. I use a couple of tbsp of whatever citrus zest I used juice (fresh squeeze please!) and about a cup of icing sugar. Mix and drizzle while scones are still hot. I suggest being judicious when using fresh/frozen fruit as they can get a little wet-ish if you go nutso.

Serve and impress your friends. I did.

Answer man time:

Shower curtain? Got it at Home Outfitters. I think it was 40$. They have matching accessories!
Toilet? Painted behind it it when it wasn't there. My Momma didn't raise me to be a fool.

Now if you'll excuse me, I have to go wipe off wet dogs. Damn rain.

Oh and happy 10 years to my fabulous husband. May is a month full of stuff to celebrate, but really? 10 YEARS!?! We rock my love. We really do.

*or add your own spices. I love these two. they make me happy
**Chris hates raisins. he says its a perfectly good way to wreck almost anything. :)